John Bluga

John Bluga, age 96, of South Lyon, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. Born on July 23, 1929, he was the son of Peter and Silvia (Todor) Bluga. On February 14, 1960, he married the love of his life, Irene Constas. They shared more than 51 devoted years together, building a life centered on family, until her passing on November 17, 2011.

John grew up in Detroit and graduated from Pershing High School with the class of 1946. After graduating from high school, John enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably for over two years during World War II. During his service, he began boxing and continued the sport following his discharge, becoming an amateur boxer who proudly won a Golden Gloves tournament. John began his long career in 1966 as a brick mason with Ford Motor Company at the Dearborn Research and Development Test Track. He retired in 1994 after many years of dedicated service.

John remained active throughout his life, walking several miles a day and regularly riding his bicycle. He kept a meticulous yard, taking pride in a perfectly cut lawn and neatly trimmed hedges. In retirement, he devoted himself to his passion for woodcarving. He was a member of the South Lyon Senior Wood Carvers and the Livonia Wood Carvers clubs, creating beautiful hand-carved pieces like the one displayed in South Lyon City Hall of the South Lyon Depot. John crafted canes for veterans as well as intricate carvings of eagles, horses, and other animals, each made using only hand tools with remarkable detail.

He also enjoyed attending local car shows, where he proudly showcased his 1970 Monte Carlo. John had a warm sense of humor and cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy in his later years. John will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and his legacy will live on through those he loved.

John is survived by his children George (Linda) Bluga and Peter (Donna Sharp) Bluga; and his grandchildren, Christopher Bluga, Samantha Bluga, Amberly Knott, and Jade Mease. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his sisters, Rose Stewart and Flora Jones; his brother Peter Bluga; and his grandson Jake Smith.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 28, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with visiting beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. John will be laid to rest next to his wife in the South Lyon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Alzheimer’s Association, 25200 Telegraph Road, Ste 100, Southfield, MI 48033.